India captain Shubman Gill is fully ready for the first Test against Sri Lanka, according to Sairaj Bahutule. Gill was hurt in training on August 6 and sat out the first two days of India’s three-day warm-up against Sri Lanka Cricket XI in Colombo while the team management monitored his recovery.
The 26-year-old came back on the final day and showed no sign of discomfort, easing worries over his availability.
Bahutule’s verdict
Bahutule, quoted by ESPNcricinfo, described the rest as a precaution rather than anything more serious, saying Gill had been fine and training as normal. The management chose not to risk him on the first day of the practice match, he said, and his batting in the second innings was flawless. He added that Gill is very much ready for the Test.
Fluent return in the middle
Chasing 207 after Sri Lanka Cricket XI’s second innings, Gill opened and made 44 from 54 balls, with seven boundaries. India won by six wickets, and the innings gave the team further reassurance.
The first Test begins on August 15 at the Galle International Stadium, and Gill will lead India through the two-match series.
With India keen to strengthen their World Test Championship position, having their captain available is a major boost. His leadership and batting at the top of the order will matter as India look for a good start in Sri Lanka.
